The two homologs of a pair move toward opposite poles of dividing cell during a. mitosis. b. meiosis I. c. meiosis II. d. fertilization.

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the process being described: The movement of homologous chromosomes to opposite poles occurs during cell division.
2. Recall the phases of cell division in mitosis and meiosis: In mitosis, chromosomes separate into two identical sets. In meiosis, there are two rounds of division - meiosis I and meiosis II.
3. Understand the behavior of chromosomes in meiosis I: During meiosis I, homologous chromosomes pair up and then are separated, moving to opposite poles of the cell.
4. Compare with meiosis II: In meiosis II, it is the sister chromatids that separate and move to opposite poles, similar to what happens in mitosis.
5. Conclude the correct answer: Since the question specifies the movement of homologous chromosomes (not sister chromatids), the correct answer is 'b. meiosis I.'

Key Concepts

Mitosis

Mitosis is the process of cell division that results in two genetically identical daughter cells from a single parent cell. It involves a series of stages: prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase, where chromosomes are duplicated and evenly distributed. Mitosis is crucial for growth, repair, and asexual reproduction in organisms.

Meiosis

Meiosis is a specialized form of cell division that reduces the chromosome number by half, resulting in four genetically diverse gametes. It consists of two sequential divisions: meiosis I and meiosis II. During meiosis I, homologous chromosomes are separated, which is essential for sexual reproduction and genetic diversity.

Homologous Chromosomes

Homologous chromosomes are pairs of chromosomes, one inherited from each parent, that have the same genes at the same loci but may carry different alleles. During meiosis I, these homologs align and are separated into different cells, ensuring that each gamete receives one chromosome from each pair, which is vital for maintaining genetic variation in offspring.